For aphids, introduce ladybirds, who will be more than happy to eat them.

Not all garden insects are harmful. Feel free to learn more about this topic.

Be a clever lawn mower

For a small lawn surface, use a mechanical lawnmower that doesn’t use petrol or electricity. It doesn't pollute, doesn’t make a lot of noise, and features a protective mat that encourages regrowth.

For large lawns, practice “mulching.” Choose a petrol or electric lawn mower equipped with a “mulching” system that cuts the grass very finely and leaves it on the ground to act as a natural fertilizer. This saves time (no need to pick up the cut grass and take it to the dump) and money (by using less petrol). It also improves lawn quality by protecting against draught and disease and reducing moss.

Opt for steam weeding

This method consists of destroying weeds by applying steam or pressurised hot water heated to 95°C. The plant dries out and stops growing. This method has real ecological, practical and financial advantages.

Compost biodegradable waste

Deposit waste such as fruit and vegetable peels and parings from plants and flowers in a receptacle that ensures proper ventilation. After a few months, this waste can be used as top-quality organic fertiliser for your garden.

Hoe regularly to aerate the soil and reduce watering frequency.

Collect rain water from gutter run-offs in containers

Use this rainwater to water flowers or the lawn, wash the car, etc.

WORK PLACE

Here are some things you can do in your workplace to be an eco-friendly citizen.

Print only when it’s absolutely necessary.

Reuse the backside of printed sheets as draft paper

This means avoiding crumpling paper so you can reuse it.

Set your printer to print both sides and in black and white only.

Avoid using plastic cups and disposable items.

Opt for refillable and reusable office supplies

Buy recycled products when possible.

Use heat and air conditioning in moderation.

Turn off the lights in empty rooms and use natural light when possible

Position your desk or workstation near a window.

Remember to turn off and/or unplug machines and electronics after use (do not leave on standby).

Sort your rubbish for recycling whenever possible.

Conserve water and report any leaks.

Use email when possible and avoid sending correspondence by post

You can add a signature line to your emails saying, “Respect the environment: print this email only if absolutely necessary.”

Consider using audio and videoconferencing to replace business travel

These are good ways to save time and reduce business travel. Of course, try to keep relations warm and friendly nonetheless.

Offer to car share with workmates

Car sharing not only reduces pollution, but also divides travel costs among the vehicle’s occupants

When possible, take public transportation, walk, or bike.

ON THE ROAD

Here are some things you can do to be an eco-friendly driver.

Keep your tyres inflated

Up to 3% over-consumption can result from tyres under-inflated by 0.3 bar. For motorway driving, increase the air pressure by 15%.

Choose a fuel-efficient vehicle

Cars are responsible for 57% of carbon dioxide emissions from road transportation.

Adopt eco-friendly driving habits

Driving safely and smoothly can help save up to 40% of petrol used. Avoiding unnecessary breaking and abrupt gear shits can lead to savings of up to 20%.

Have your car inspected

A well-adjusted engine can produce 20% less pollution and use 10% less fuel.

Don’t drive over the speed limit

If speed limits were consistently respected, approximately 3 million metric tonnes less carbon dioxide would be produced.

OUT AND ABOUT

Here are some things you can do when you are out and about to be an eco-friendly citizen.

When you travel

Never dump anything into a body of water

Oceans and rivers are too often used as rubbish bins for our chemical waste. The toxic nature of certain products can result in damage to aquatic habitats and the death of thousands of animals.

Packaging represents one fourth of the weight and a large portion of the volume of all household waste.

Choose cardboard packaging that can be recycled.

When possible, buy products that are more respectful of the environment, especially those certified by NF Environnement or European Ecolabel.

Choose produce grown organically or by integrated farming methods.

Avoid buying single-usage disposable products

Buy fair trade products

Fair trade products are a way to ensure a better redistribution of wealth in developing countries. They allow small-scale local producers to enjoy a better standard of living and to educate their children.

The modes of production for fair trade products are more respectful of the environment.

Prioritise locally-made products

Reduce costs and the harmful consequences associated with transportation.